Committee Report

April 23, 2025

S. 587

Introduced by Senators Williams and Reichenbach

S. Printed 4/23/25--H.

Read the first time April 22, 2025

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The committee on House Invitations and Memorial Resolutions

To whom was referred a Concurrent Resolution (S. 587) to request the Department of Transportation name the portion of Jeffords Street in the City of Florence in Florence County from its intersection with East Palmetto, etc., respectfully

Report:

That they have duly and carefully considered the same, and recommend that the same do pass:

DENNIS MOSS for Committee.

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A concurrent RESOLUTION

To request the Department of Transportation name the portion of Jeffords Street in the City of Florence in Florence County from its intersection with East Palmetto Street to its intersection with East Pine Street the "Honorable Pat Gibson-Hye Moore memorial Street" and erect appropriate markers or signs containing these words.

Whereas, Pat Gibson-Hye Moore's life was defined by an unwavering commitment to serving others and her beloved City of Florence, South Carolina. Born on June 16, 1952, and leaving an indelible mark on the community until her passing on January 2, 2025, Pat dedicated herself to creating a Florence where every citizen could thrive. Her own early experiences with hardship, stemming from extreme poverty that led to her adoption and a period of homelessness as a young woman, ignited a passion for helping those most in need; and

Whereas, throughout her extensive career in public service, Pat consistently put the well-being of her neighbors at the forefront. Between 1995 and 2016, she served with distinction on multiple boards, including the Florence Housing Board, the Florence Transportation Commission, and the Florence One School District Board. In 2016, her dedication and leadership propelled her to the Florence City Council, where every decision she made was driven by her commitment to achieving the highest quality of life for all citizens; and

Whereas, Pat's work in addressing homelessness became one of the hallmarks of her career. Whether personally assisting a family in finding shelter or advocating for large-scale solutions, she was a tireless champion for the vulnerable. Her vigorous support of the development of Hope Village, a transformative tiny house community designed to provide safe, dignified housing for those experiencing homelessness, has changed countless lives and continues to inspire community-based solutions for one of Florence's most pressing challenges; and

Whereas, beyond her advocacy for the homeless, Pat recognized that the strength of a community is built on opportunities for recreation and engagement for all ages. She founded the East Florence Community Organization to address the unmet needs of children, teens, and seniors in impoverished neighborhoods. She led the development of the Pearl Moore Basketball Gymnasium in West Florence. These initiatives provided safe spaces for physical activity, social interaction, and community pride investments that enriched the lives of many; and

Whereas, her most widely celebrated accomplishment was founding the South Carolina Pecan Festival in 2003. Under Pat's visionary leadership, the festival blossomed into one of the Pee Dee Region's most significant cultural events, consistently winning Best of the Pee Dee awards, earning national attention, and bringing millions of dollars to downtown businesses. Pat cherished the festival's Gospel Stage, a symbol of her enduring faith and desire to uplift the community through celebration and unity; and

Whereas, a prominent local pastor described her as "a walking sermon," countless residents of Florence stated that if it were not for Pat's help, they would not be alive or have accomplished their dreams. Pat's life was a testament to compassion, resilience, and the power of selfless leadership. Even as she bravely battled a recurrence of lung cancer, a struggle that ultimately led to her decision not to seek re-election, her spirit never wavered. During her final days in December 2024, while learning her cancer treatments were no longer working and her physicians recommended she transition to hospice care, she successfully organized her last act of kindness by arranging that holiday gifts be delivered to every child living in the city's shelters; and

Whereas, Pat Gibson-Hye Moore's legacy remains woven into the fabric of Florence, a legacy defined by transformative service, community revitalization, and an enduring belief that every citizen deserves dignity, opportunity, and hope. Her remarkable journey will inspire future generations to serve with heart and conviction; and

Whereas, it would be fitting and proper to forever recognize the legacy of this daughter of the Palmetto State by having a street named in her honor. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the Senate, the House of Representatives concurring:

That the members of the South Carolina General Assembly, by this resolution, request the Department of Transportation name the portion of Jeffords Street in the City of Florence in Florence County from its intersection with East Palmetto Street to its intersection with East Pine Street the "Honorable Pat Gibson-Hye Moore Street" and erect appropriate markers or signs containing these words.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Department of Transportation.

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